SARPASS TREK - YHAI (Some tips)

SARPASS TREK - YHAI (Some tips)
Hi Friends,
With regard to my experience from 2009 May batch of SARPASS Trek through YHAI, I realized that there is no much information provided on any of the sites/blogs with regard to what to carry and what not to carry. From my own experience I realized that there was a lot missing. Hence I decided to write this blog, which could provide some information to the trekkers trekking SARPASS through YHAI.
- Do some basic preparation before the trek. Suggest some exercising, jogging to help you warm up for the trek. There are some very steep climbs. So better be prepared.
- At the YHAI base camp in Kasol you may leave your extra baggage and collect
it back on your return . You may want to carry your mobile phones along as
at most camps there is connectivity available.
- YHAI provides for Rucksacks and sleeping covers. Hence you may not want to carry your own rucksack.
- As there is a whole lot to climb, carry minimal stuff to reduce weight.
YHAI provides for sleeping bags and blankets at every camp. Hence avoid carrying your own sleeping bags.
- One may not be able to take bath in the cold temperature. Hence avoid carrying toiletries like shaving kits etc that may not be of use.
- It’s very slippery in the snow and may also rain heavily. Hence wear a good trekking shoe. Ideally a water proof one. We friends had purchased Lafuma and Merrell, which has Goretek (waterproof) and Vibram sole (considered best for hiking). It may be a little expensive, but worth buying considering the steep and slippery climbs). Try keeping your shoes dry as much as possible.
- YHAI serves food at all camps during the trek. Hence it’s important to carry a tiffin box, small bowls, and a glass. We also used butter paper, which helped us avoid greasing of our tiffins. It was very hand. Hence I would recommend you carry some butter paper along to place over the tiffin box before you get your food packed.
- Now most important thing – Clothes. What to carry, what can be avoided.
Must Carry – Thermal wear for extreme temperatures. A rain coat which cover till your knees. (Make sure it has a hood). Carry 2 to3 trousers. 3 –T-shirts, which you can reuse during the treks. Avoid extra clothes. One good Jacket is a must, which keeps warm inside, and also which is waterproof from outside (Weather may get extremely cold, Hence ensure you have best Jacket.). 3 to 4 sets of Socks. (Make sure it’s absolutely dry when you are wearing them to avoid blisters). A monkey cap that covers most of your face, a water proof gloves which is also warm inside.Towels,napkins.
Note: Do not wear wet clothes. Look to dry it everyday. If required you may keep your clothes overnight in your sleeping bags provided by the YHAI at every camp. It will help dry your clothes. You may also keep your water bottles inside the sleeping bags to keep the water warm. Travel light.
- Water is available in most camps. Hence 1 little of water bottle should suffice
(ideally a sipper). Reckon carry an extra empty water bottle which may be
used for cleaning etc.
- Your regular tablets. Some First aid kit (pouch) may be carried along.
- Other essentials to carry
- Torch is a must.
- Shades to avoid direct contact from UV rays. Preferably black glasses.
- Good Sunscreen Lotion
- Cold cream (Moisturiser,Vaseline)
- Sanitizer, Toilet Papers, Powder to keep your feet clean.
- At some places the local villagers also provide for food during the lunch breaks. They serve Maggies, omlets, tea etc. There may be porters also available in some camps to carry the rucksacks. Hence you may want to carry some cash along.
- Carry your camera, there are excellent scenic views where you can take awesome pictures.

At any stage of the trek if you feel you may not be able to move ahead, then I would suggest you return back. It’s no point strectching/risking yourself. There is always a next time in life.

The above information provided is from my own personal experience. This blog is an attempt to help SARPASS trekkers get some additional information on the YHAI – SARPASS Trek. One may choose not to consider this suggestion.